Hydrogen technology has been gaining ground in recent times in Brazil. However, in the mobility sector, it is still less widespread than battery electric buses. In an urgent scenario for the energy transition, instead of choosing an alternative, the path may lie in a combination of both.

An ambitious energy transition strategy aligned with the main international climate goals and an understanding of the economic potential of new technologies can create production opportunities in places with abundant renewable resources capable of favoring the competitiveness of hydrogen, such as Brazil which, with one of the most renewable electricity matrixes in the world, could be a power in the production and export of green hydrogen.

One of the biggest disadvantages for those looking to buy a hydrogen vehicle today is the lack of an extensive refueling network in Brazil. The current situation in much of the world is the lack of specific hydrogen service stations. There are signs that this may change in the coming years, but it is currently an unquestionable problem for drivers.

Edson Orikassa, manager of Toyota Brazil and president of the Brazilian Automotive Energy Association, has set a goal of 800,000 vehicles and 900 hydrogen stations by 2030. The "big three," as Toyota, Nissan and Honda are known , have formed, with 11 other companies, H2 Mobility, which has developed a ten-year plan to build this infrastructure. The stations spread across Brazil will help spread hydrogen power to consumers and lower the price of fuel cell cars.

Approved by the National Energy Policy Council (CNPE) this month, the Fuel of the Future program provides a signal to the market about the federal government's energy planning to decarbonize the transportation sector. The CNPE has already approved the development of a national hydrogen program.

Regarding the creation of the network of hydrogen service stations, the CNPE points out that the decision between centralized or distributed production of hydrogen can circumvent the non-existence of a distribution network. Electrolyzers or reformers can be installed close to consumption, however, the business model must be decided by the market.

In Brazil there are currently

1

gas stations with hydrogen for sale